Samsung WA456DRHDSU Washing Machine Review

Samsung's WA456DRHSDU is a family friendly washer

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This review was published on July 09, 2013. Since then, this product may have been discontinued or replaced. Pricing and availability may differ from what is stated in the review.

Introduction

The Samsung WA456DRHDSU (MSRP $1,049) isn't a bad top-loading washing machine by any means. Cleaning performance is acceptable, and a few cycles are comparable to front-loaders in terms of efficiency. Yes, it's a thirsty machine overall, and other washers that cost less do a better job removing stains. Nevertheless, if you have a large family and do more than two loads a week, then the WA456DRHDSU is worth checking out.

Design & Usability

A new spin on an old design

When Samsung set off to build the WA456DRHDSU, design seemed to have been a high priority. A retro-futuristic control panel and curved edges give it a streamlined look. You can get all that style for at least $100 less if you opt for a white machine (model number WA456DRHDWR) rather than one finished in Chrome Shadow, a color that sounds suspiciously like a cosmetics line for aging robots. The biggest design feature that this washer has was its bigness. Samsung described the 4.5 cubic foot capacity as King Sized, though you don't need a royal pedigree to use every inch. Can you machine wash an ermine stole?

Though its glass window obscures prying eyes, the Samsung's door has a no-slam hinge. Physical buttons help with usability, and when options are selected, they light up. Features turn on, features turn off, no miscommunication. Overall, the WA456DRHDSU is a breeze to use.

Performance & Features

Stain removal is good, water use isn't great.

For a washing machine with an MSRP just north of a grand, the WA456DRHDSU was average when it came to cleaning. It outperformed many other top-loaders, but couldn't match the best machines in its price bracket. The Heavy Duty cycle was best, with a no-holds-barred approach to stain fighting that used 50 gallons of water. For everyday loads, we recommend the Normal cycle. It used only 16 gallons of water and was only marginally less effective than Heavy Duty.

the Normal cycle...used 16 gallons of water

We weren't thrilled that cycles retained quite a bit of water once they were finished. That means more work for the dryer, and more energy spent. This also proved to be one thirsty washer: If you use most of the cycles on offer, your annual water and electricity bills may be as high as $60. That's more than twice some other washers we've tested. We recommend you stick to the basic cycles, which use a little less water.

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Conclusion

The Samsung WA456DRHDSU is ideal for a large family. It's got cleaning performance on par with other top-loaders, but doesn't wow us in any way. Looks-wise, it's austere but practical. And when it comes to efficiency, it could do a lot better. But with a 4.5 cu. ft. capacity, and a price that drops below $800 on sale if you're willing to go with a white finish, it may be just the thing for a large family.

Our editors review and recommend products to help you buy the stuff you need. If you make a purchase by clicking one of our links, we may earn a small share of the revenue. Our picks and opinions are independent from any business incentives.

Our editors review and recommend products to help you buy the stuff you need. If you make a purchase by clicking one of our links, we may earn a small share of the revenue. Our picks and opinions are independent from any business incentives.

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Our editors review and recommend products to help you buy the stuff you need. If you make a purchase by clicking one of our links, we may earn a small share of the revenue. Our picks and opinions are independent from any business incentives.

Our editors review and recommend products to help you buy the stuff you need. If you make a purchase by clicking one of our links, we may earn a small share of the revenue. Our picks and opinions are independent from any business incentives.